Jenny Duncalf buoyed for Hong Kong return

Alex Miller

Harrogate’s Jenny Duncalf is heading into the first round of the Hong Kong Open next week in high spirits following her recent win in the Monte Carlo Classic.

The 33-year old former world No 2, who will take on Denmark’s Line Hansen in the first round, is enjoying a new lease of life after a change of mindset at the start of this season.

“It felt like a fresh start and I have been eager and more motivated than I have been in a while,” said Duncalf, currently ranked 21st in the world.

“I’ve been enjoying my training and playing in practice more and I think that has come through in my tournament match play.”

Danish national champion Hansen, ranked 26 in the world, will prove a stern test for Duncalf, having reached the semi-finals in Monte Carlo and at the NetSuite Open in San Francisco earlier this year.

But Duncalf will harbour fond memories of Hong Kong having reached the semi-finals of the HKFC International in May.

Despite admitting that the odds are against her in a strong field, Duncalf is quietly confident of an impressive showing this time out.

“I will be taking each match as it comes and will be on the wrong end of the seedings draw wise so will face tough matches early on in both events,” added Duncalf, who will also be looking to take good form into the World Championships next month.

“I’m feeling confident at the moment and just looking forward to playing my game, competing hard and trying to stir things up and make life as difficult as I can for any one I play.”

A win could set up a mouth-watering tie against London’s world No 7 Alison Waters in the second round.